The AA has prepared the following driving tips to help keep New Zealanders safe this holiday period

Courtesy – be courteous and show consideration to other road users. Obey the rules of the road. Plan your travel to avoid traffic jams and keep calm.

Speeding – excessive speed is a major cause of road accidents. Drive within the speed limit at all times, and watch ahead for slow traffic or road signs notifying a change in the speed limit. If you encounter sunstrike or heavy rain, or are unsure of the road, slow down.

Conserve fuel – driving smoothly and avoiding unnecessary acceleration will reduce fuel consumption and be less stressful; you can cut 13% off your fuel bill by travelling at 100km/h instead of 110km/h. Reduce drag by keeping your windows up and not using a roof or bike rack unless you have to, and only use air-conditioning when absolutely necessary. Pull over somewhere safe and take a break if you get stuck behind a line of traffic.

Maintain the gap – maintain a minimum two-second gap between your car and the vehicle in front. The gap should be greater in adverse weather or visibility conditions.

Keep left – keep to the left at all times unless overtaking, and then only if you have a clear view of the road throughout the manoeuvre. Check your rear-view mirror and side mirrors regularly.

Seatbelts – wear your seatbelt at all times, and ensure every passenger is securely restrained. Pay particular attention to children, and don’t forget to secure pets or loose items.

Fatigue – if going on a long trip, get a good night’s sleep beforehand. Avoid driving late at night, and take a power nap if you feel tired or stressed. Take regular breaks while driving – consider your passengers too.

Drink driving – driving and alcohol don’t mix. If you’re attending a social function and intend to drink, leave your car at home or nominate a sober driver. Never get in a car with a drunk driver.

Cellphones – don’t text and drive, or talk on a mobile phone while driving. Statistics show that using a mobile phone while driving is as dangerous as driving over the legal blood alcohol limit. Ask a passenger to handle any phone call, or if you’re travelling alone turn your phone off and check it only when you take a break.

Love your car – have your car checked or serviced before starting on your holiday to minimise the inconvenience of a breakdown. Check the pressure of your tyres and make sure your registration and WoF is current, and if you own a diesel, buy plenty of RUC for the holidays.

For more information contact

Mike Noon
General Manager – Motoring Affairs
New Zealand Automobile Association
T. +64 4 931 9984
F. +64 4 931 9964
M. +64 21 659 704
E. mnoon@aa.co.nz

The New Zealand Automobile Association is an incorporated society with over one million members. It represents the interests of road users who collectively pay over $2 billion in taxes each year through fuels excise, road user charges and GST.